what happens if

let14intohof

something happens to me...in the short term....what if I get covid and have to go to the hospital myself?  Would someone have to put my wife into a nursing home or something?  What steps if any should I take?

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Wilted Daughter

Hello,

Have you thought about creating a healthcare proxies for you and your wife this will allow someone to make medical decisions when you are not capable. 

I've heard from professional caregivers that they may be able to assist/care for you in the home. There are health care agencies that visit periodically (RNs 2xs per week, OT/PTs visits) and paid by Medicare, Private insurance or direct pay. Private pay, if affordable, will allow persons to come into the home and care for you/your wife under doctor's orders. This can be done through agencies or directly with professional homecare agencies. Try researching elder services agencies, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities etc. for referrals (ask your PCP). 

If hospitalization can't be avoided then having someone (agency/family, friends, etc.) come to stay with your wife is ideal but takes planning otherwise it may be placement into SNF (short-time care) facility until you are released and well enough to care for her again. Elder services agencies have social workers that can address these questions/concerns. State Medicaid website(s) (i.e. Maine.gov, Georgia.gov, etc.) offer search options/list various agencies within the state. Also, Google search aging/elderly services in your community and state health and human services info lines. 

There are many 'free' options (non-profit agencies with social workers) that may help to successfully address your concerns. Call ALZ Helpline to tap into its resources/information. I would do a little research, speak to family/friends and medical professionals before hiring an attorney...unless you have more money than time/patience/research abilities. 

I hope you don't contract COVID or require hospitalization. It's good to have foresight and have a good plan. Best Wishes!

Ed1937

Everyone needs a "Plan B" to address possible situations like that. There are a ton of different ways you could be out of commission for a while. If you have family members willing to take over for a while, that would be great. One of our daughters was ready to step in for me if needed. She and I both held DPOA for my wife, and we could act independently. Whatever you can do, something is better than nothing. A "Plan C" is a good thing to consider when you have "Plan B" worked out.